Beauty at Every Angle with Iziko Designs
Steep blocks don’t have to spell disaster. Kathy Sundstrom meets a couple turning challenging slopes into stunning, custom designed homes perfectly shaped to the land.
Beachside land on the Sunshine Coast is scarce, and the few new estates that do appear often sit on steep, sloping blocks that send nervous buyers scrambling, worried about budget blow-outs before they’ve even begun. But for Iziko Designs, a boutique custom building design studio owned by building designer Rustin Obery and his wife Bernadette, tricky blocks aren’t a deterrent, they’re an invitation.
“People are often put off from buying sloping land because they’re afraid of the unknown and extra costs,” Bernadette says. “But sloping sites aren’t a problem. They’re an opportunity. You just need the right team from the start.”
Iziko Designs has carved out a niche where many building designers and architects hesitate. Rustin and Bernadette view sloping blocks as a chance to design homes that feel anchored to the land, capturing views and breezes flat sites simply can’t offer. Equally important is keeping a homeowner’s dream grounded in reality and in budget. Too often, clients abandon projects or leave them half-finished because costs spiralled out of control.
“So many clients come to us after having a beautiful but unrealistic design done somewhere else,” Bernadette says. “They loved the look, but no one could build it. And no one spoke about budget upfront. That is why we bring the builder in early to discuss what’s possible, it avoids disappointment later.”
Simply, Iziko Designs doesn’t produce extravagant concepts that look good on paper but never get built. They design homes that will be built and built well.
And they work with their clients to ensure their dream matches the reality.
“We work closely with our clients to ensure every detail is tailored to their needs,” Rustin says.
The couple have focused on developing a deep understanding of local building codes, regulations and construction costs, allowing them to create homes without hassles. Many builds can blow budgets before construction ends, but Iziko Designs ensure that designs are aligned with real costs from day one.
To achieve this, they work closely with a select group of trusted builders, especially for sloping blocks.
“These builders understand the complexities of excavation, retaining, drainage and access long before construction begins,” Bernadette explains.
This early collaboration allows Iziko Designs to give clients clarity fast.
“People want to know what they’re in for,” Bernadette says. “We can quickly establish a budget with about 95% accuracy because we’re working with builders who know the process inside out.”
One of the few housing estates close to the beach still offering new builds is Coolum Horizons, just minutes from Coolum Beach and the vibe of Coolum village.
The estate includes level and sloping homesites, but it’s the slopes that particularly excite Rustin.
“They create opportunities for split-level homes, better layouts, and more interesting design,” he says.
The couple love the estate and the potential of its sloping sites so much, they’re building their own family home there. For each design, Rustin takes time to walk the block first, understanding its unique orientation, breezes, access, and the natural features that will enhance a home before committing to a concept.
To help clients then visualise what’s possible and see it through Rustin’s experienced eyes, Iziko Designs uses detailed 3D renders that show exactly how a home will sit within the slope and capture its outlook. Their approach is always grounded in practicality so that clients can build what they design, not just dream about it.
It is this simple, practical, and holistic philosophy that is earning Iziko Designs a loyal following across the Sunshine Coast with design projects on the go in Noosa, Tewantin, Coolum, the hinterland, and beyond. Their clients range from those with multimillion-dollar budgets to far more modest means, all looking to use expertise in shaping a property that is personal.
“We treat everyone the same,” Rustin says. “We help people create homes that suit their land, lifestyle, and budget. “With sloping sites, this does not have to be scary. It can be spectacular.”
Bernadette has lived on the Sunshine Coast for more than 30 years, and Rustin for nearly a decade. Their connection to the region is personal, and it shows in their work.
“We love this place,” Bernadette says. “Designing homes that belong here is what drives us.”
As the Sunshine Coast continues to grow, sloping blocks will become more common. For Iziko Designs, that is not a challenge. It is an opportunity ready
to be explored.
Discover more about Iziko’s philosophy.
